Review: Jailbird by Heather Huffman

Jailbird by Heather Huffman

Description:

In this paradoxical blend of light and dark, Jailbird is a warm and humorous tale about the power of hope.

Neena Allen has led a tough life. Born on the reservation, raped and unjustly convicted of murdering her attacker, she survives prison - barely. When an opportunity presents itself, she doesn't hesitate to escape. Presumed dead, she stumbles into a sleepy Arkansas town where she finds refuge with a kind family and glimpses the chance for a real home, a place to belong.

But leading a double life isn’t easy, especially when you fall in love with the town lawyer.

To complicate matters further, a tenacious reporter gets too close to the truth and Neena finds herself on the run again. With a manhunt under way and her newfound happiness at risk, Neena is forced to face the painful memories of her past to decide on her future. Should she fight for her new life or give up those she loves to keep them safe?

My Thoughts:
Jailbird by Heather Huffman opens in the middle of a jailbreak.  You find yourself thrust directly into the action as our heroine escapes from prison and has to find a way to survive on the outside with no one to trust.  Her story comes out bit by bit and I found myself captivated, unable to put the book down because I needed to know more.  The story telling is very straight forward, relying more on action than description to move things along.

This could have been a dark book, considering the topic, but it is filled with humor and light moments.  Neena is a very strong, determined character and she spends most of her time pushing forward, doing what needs to be done, instead of dwelling on the hopelessness of her situation.

Heather Huffman uses her writing to raise awareness of social issues, but it doesn't feel preachy.  It is just there, in the plot, and that is what gets you thinking about it, wanting to do something about it yourself.  Very sneaky.  Check out her website, she has a lot of information there about social issues and charities, things you can do to help.

My Rating:  ****
Steam Factor:  !!